Which sport does not normally have extremely high VO2 max values?

Which sport does not normally have extremely high VO2 max values?

• A. Cross-country skiing
• B. Long-distance running
• C. Middle-distance running
• D. Middle-distance swimming

Answer: (D)

VO2 max measures the body's maximum ability to take in and use oxygen during intense aerobic work. It tends to be highest in sports that require continuous, whole-body effort with large muscle mass and sustained oxidative demand. Cross-country skiing engages both arms and legs against resistance, pushing these values to the top. Long-distance running also demands a huge, ongoing oxygen supply from a large muscle mass and efficient energy use. Middle-distance running likewise requires very high aerobic capacity, though over a shorter duration, so athletes often reach very high VO2 max values. In middle-distance swimming, the energy cost is heavily influenced by water resistance and technique, and although swimmers train to an excellent aerobic level, the maximal oxygen uptake values are typically not pushed as high as in the running or skating disciplines. So middle-distance swimming usually does not show the extremely high VO2 max values seen in the other sports.

VO2 max measures the body's maximum ability to take in and use oxygen during intense aerobic work. It tends to be highest in sports that require continuous, whole-body effort with large muscle mass and sustained oxidative demand. Cross-country skiing engages both arms and legs against resistance, pushing these values to the top. Long-distance running also demands a huge, ongoing oxygen supply from a large muscle mass and efficient energy use. Middle-distance running likewise requires very high aerobic capacity, though over a shorter duration, so athletes often reach very high VO2 max values. In middle-distance swimming, the energy cost is heavily influenced by water resistance and technique, and although swimmers train to an excellent aerobic level, the maximal oxygen uptake values are typically not pushed as high as in the running or skating disciplines. So middle-distance swimming usually does not show the extremely high VO2 max values seen in the other sports.